stalk [1]
n
1 the main stem of a herbaceous plant
2 any of various subsidiary plant stems, such as a leafstalk (petiole) or flower stalk (peduncle)
3 a slender supporting structure in animals such as crinoids and certain protozoans, coelenterates, and barnacles
4 any long slender supporting shaft or column
(C14: probably a diminutive formed from Old English stalu upright piece of wood; related to Old Frisian staal handle)
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stalked adj
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stalkless adj
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stalklike adj